FLORIDA STATE PARKS TO HOST FIRST DAY OF HIKES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dec. 30, 2013

FLORIDA STATE PARKS TO HOST FIRST DAY OF HIKES

~Ring in the New Year with a hike at a State Park~

Guided by staff and volunteers, First Day Hikes are not only great exercise, they offer an opportunity to learn about unique aspects of the park.

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Park Service invites the public to get back to nature in the New Year by participating in First Day Hikes 2014 on Wednesday, Jan. 1.

First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and reconnecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on Jan. 1 at a state park. First Day Hikes are aimed at getting people outside to exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family. The Florida Park Service is proud to host more than 48 events around the state.

“I encourage Florida families and visitors to begin 2014 in our state parks and enjoy the natural world around you,” said Donald Forgione, Florida Park Service Director. “Join others across Florida for a First Day Hike as part of a healthy lifestyle.”

In October, the Florida State
Parks System won its third Gold Medal of Excellence from the National
Recreation and Parks System. This makes Florida the first
three-time gold medal award recipient. Since 1935, the Florida Park
Service has provided recreational activities, while preserving, interpreting
and restoring natural and cultural resources.

Park staff and volunteers will guide these hikes, offering educational commentary along the way. Start times will vary by park. Please check the park’s event page for details. The events will take place:

Visit the website for a complete list of special events in Florida’s state parks.

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails

The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National
Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida
America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999,
2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration
and the National Recreation and Park Association.

Florida’s
171 state parks and trails inspire residents and visitors with recreation
opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate
children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With 161 parks, 10
state trails, nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500
miles of multi-use trails, visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural
treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app,
available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your
experience while visiting. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org